The Illinois Department of Insurance is warning homeowners about unsolicited offers of help from insurance adjusters after recent storms in southern Illinois.

The agency says these unaffiliated adjusters claim they can get bigger settlements for homeowners from their insurance companies.

The department says homeowners should contact them before entering into contracts with these unaffiliated adjusters.

The DOI also is urging Illinoisans to check their insurance coverage to see whether it protects them against flood damage as the threat of flooding increases, says the state insurance department.

Heavy rains and flooding already have hit parts of downstate Illinois. State officials say there could be more of the same ahead.

The department says most homeowner and renter insurance do not include flood protection. State officials advise residents to purchase those policies now because they do not take effect until 30 days after purchase.

The department says flood insurance costs on average about $400 per year for up to $100,000 in coverage.

Officials say people should photograph and catalog personal belongings and insurance policies to back up insurance claims in the event of property damage or loss.

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